Introduction to Linux

Introduction to Linux

The Introduction to Linux course is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the Linux operating system, which is widely used in various fields, including server management, cybersecurity, and software development. This course is ideal for beginners with little to no prior experience with Linux. Students will learn the basics of navigating the Linux command line, managing files and directories, and performing essential administrative tasks. Additionally, the course will cover basic scripting and introduce students to key Linux tools and utilities. By the end of this course, students will have the skills needed to confidently work in a Linux environment and continue their learning journey in more advanced topics.

Course Outline

Module 1: Getting Started with Linux

1.1 Introduction to Linux and Open Source

Students will learn the history and philosophy of Linux, the importance of open source, and the various Linux distributions available.

1.2 Installing Linux

This section covers the process of installing Linux on different platforms, including virtual machines and dual-boot systems.

1.3 Linux Filesystem Structure

Students will explore the Linux filesystem hierarchy, understanding the purpose and structure of key directories.

Module 2: Basic Linux Commands

2.1 Navigating the Command Line

Students will learn essential commands for navigating the Linux command line, including cd, ls, and pwd.

2.2 Managing Files and Directories

This section covers commands for creating, copying, moving, and deleting files and directories in Linux.

2.3 File Permissions and Ownership

Students will understand how to view and modify file permissions and ownership, ensuring proper access control.

Module 3: Linux Text Editors and Scripting

3.1 Introduction to Linux Text Editors

An overview of popular text editors in Linux, including nano, vim, and gedit, with hands-on practice.

3.2 Basic Shell Scripting

Students will learn the basics of shell scripting, including writing simple scripts to automate tasks.

3.3 Using Filters and Pipes

This section covers the use of filters like grep and awk and the concept of piping commands to process data.

Module 4: System Administration Basics

4.1 Managing Users and Groups

Students will learn how to create, modify, and delete user accounts and manage groups in a Linux system.

4.2 Process Management

This section covers commands for monitoring and managing processes, including ps, top, kill, and nice.

4.3 Managing Software in Linux

Students will explore package management in Linux, including how to install, update, and remove software using package managers like apt and yum.

Module 5: Networking and Security Basics

5.1 Basic Networking Commands

An introduction to networking commands in Linux, such as ifconfig, ping, netstat, and ss.

5.2 Configuring Network Interfaces

Students will learn how to configure network interfaces and manage network connections on a Linux system.

5.3 Introduction to Linux Security

This section introduces basic security concepts in Linux, including setting up firewalls with iptables and securing SSH connections.

Module 6: Working with Linux Servers

6.1 Introduction to Linux Servers

Students will learn about different types of Linux servers, including web servers, file servers, and database servers.

6.2 Setting Up a Web Server

This section covers the installation and configuration of a simple web server using Apache or Nginx.

6.3 Monitoring and Logging

Students will explore tools and techniques for monitoring system performance and managing log files in Linux.

Module 7: Advanced Command Line Tools

7.1 File Compression and Archiving

An overview of file compression and archiving tools in Linux, including tar, gzip, and zip.

7.2 Disk Management

Students will learn commands for managing disks and filesystems, including partitioning, formatting, and mounting.

7.3 Advanced Shell Scripting

This section builds on earlier scripting knowledge, introducing more complex scripting concepts and techniques.

Module 8: Practical Capstone Project

8.1 Project Planning and Scope

Students will plan and define the scope of their capstone project, applying the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course.

8.2 Project Execution and Analysis

This section involves the execution of the capstone project, such as setting up a small Linux-based server or automating a set of tasks with shell scripts.

8.3 Presentation and Evaluation

Students will present their capstone projects, demonstrating their understanding of Linux and showcasing their problem-solving skills.